Have Madison’s animals lost a needed defender?

Letter to the editor
Published: August 22, 2008

Editor:

Carole Heller’s firing as manager of the Madison County Animal Shelter is a tragedy. Through many visits to the shelter in the past three years, I have been very impressed by her capable and loving care of the animals in her charge. I was happy to realize that her goal for this facility was to work as a shelter and not, as had been the case in the past, a pound which euthanized animals after a very short time. Her work at the shelter was a giant step forward and I certainly hope that Madison County citizens will not let it go back to the way it was before.

I know that Carole was working with the area schools to help teach kids to understand the responsibility of having a pet. She actively tried to find people to adopt these unfortunate and unwanted animals. She not only worked with a number of rescue leagues, but did everything in her power to give support and advice to those who did adopt from the shelter.

Carole did everything possible so that the animals in her care had a second chance. I wish the county would do the same for her!

It is sad that Madison County has lost a valuable employee and even sadder that the animals have lost a true friend.

But, I want Carole Heller to know that there are many people who do value and appreciate her and wish her the very best.

Heidi Jacobi
Graves Mill